What is SuperMemo?

SuperMemo is a software application developed in the late 1980s designed to help users memorize and retain knowledge more efficiently. It makes use of the spacing effect and spaced repetition to schedule review of flashcards, notes, and other learning materials at gradually increasing intervals.

The key benefit of SuperMemo over traditional flashcard methods is that the spaced repetition algorithm predicts when you are about to forget a piece of information based on past performance, ensuring you are prompted to review it at just the right time. This avoids wasting time reviewing what you already know well while also not allowing you to completely forget.

To use SuperMemo, you create flashcards, mind maps, pictures, audio recordings and other learning elements. As you review, you grade your memory of each item and SuperMemo uses this feedback to prioritize items you are weakest on for more frequent review. Items you know well get reviewed less often. Over time, knowledge transfers to long-term memory efficiently.

SuperMemo pioneered spaced repetition software and algorithms for maximizing learning and memory. While the interface is dated, the core algorithm and effectiveness remains strong. It has an intense cult-like following among medical students and language learners needing to retain tremendous amounts of knowledge.

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